A soundcard refers usually to a desktop audio card (internal), while interface is used when refering to the different types of external audio hardware.

First of all you need to state your budget and laptop model. Also, how many physical inputs do you actually need?
From there it will be clear what audio interface you will be able to connect to your laptop.
For a laptop, I would certainly go with Pcmcia (or express depending on the laptop) or firewire.



[This message has been edited by hitman (edited 08-19-2010).]